Ready, Set, Crawl!
Terrapin Race workers. PHOTO | Beverly Bonilla
Story and Pictures by Beverly Bonilla
The annual Terrapin Race returned to the 2026 Green River Catfish Festival on Saturday, July 4, drawing more than 200 terrapins and a large crowd of excited children and families to the Butler County High School softball field.
Sponsored by Cassia Masonic Lodge #272, which has proudly sponsored the popular event for many years, the Terrapin Race continues to be one of the festival’s favorite family traditions.
Registration began at 8 a.m., with the races kicking off promptly at 9 a.m. Participants had to be 12 years old or younger and be present during registration with their terrapin. Each child was allowed to enter up to two terrapins, and box turtles were not permitted.
This year’s event featured 18 heats, with the top five finishers from each heat advancing, resulting in 90 winners throughout the morning. Children of all ages, from babies to 12-year-olds, enjoyed the fun-filled event as families cheered on their racing terrapins.
Prize money was awarded to the top finishers in each heat, with first place winners receiving $20, second and third place winners earning $15, and the fourth and fifth place winners taking home $10 each.
The excitement built throughout the morning as the fastest terrapins advanced to the championship race. In the grand finals, Denver White claimed the overall championship and earned the $25 grand prize. Laney Shavers finished in second place to receive $10, while Talon Hutchenson placed third and received $5. All three winners also received a trophy that was donated by R.B. Griffin Bullseye Taxidermy.
Despite the summer heat, the races kept the crowd entertained from start to finish. Laughter, cheers, and plenty of friendly competition filled the air as the terrapins made their way across the field.
The 2026 Green River Catfish Festival Terrapin Race is now in history books as another successful and memorable event. Once again, the race brought together families, friends, and festivalgoers for a morning filled with laughter, friendly competition and community spirit. Thanks for the continued support from the participants and spectators. This could not have been a success without all the hard work from the volunteers and sponsors, thank you.
